New technology always presents a number of challenges! Do we understand it? Can we use it? And does it benefit us? Many new-fangled innovations have come and gone and, in some cases, completely failed and been the demise of a company! The Sinclair C5 mobility solution is a good one.

We were introduced to the modern electric vehicle some 25 years ago with the introduction of Toyota’s Prius and Honda’s Insight. Whilst the technology in principle hasn’t changed, it seems that the general public consumer is still struggling to adopt to it… why?

Eliot Smith the founder of Pro Moto, the leading training specialist in Hybrid & Electric Vehicle Technology said:

“When you buy your first EV, don't be surprised if you know more about the EV you plan to purchase than the dealer does. I'm on my 12th EV now, and the level of knowledge uncovered at the point of sale by each dealer was shockingly poor."

He told us that from discussions with clients, it seems the missing link is the first experience a customer has with the brand, in most cases, customer facing staff. Loyal customers asking what their options are in the transition to EV. How do I charge it, where do I charge it, what’s the best option for me, what size battery do I need for my circumstance etc etc etc!

No wonder EV sales to the general public are so disappointing, before changing to a new technology we need reassurance, rather than finding a lack of knowledge and confidence from the dealer.  So, it is important that everyone in your organisation that has to deal with customers is as equally knowledgeable and enthusiastic about hybrid and electrical vehicles as they are about ICE.

Training is the key, and there are a range of training course approved by the IMI applicable to different situations. For instance, the Level 1 course acts as an introduction to safe working practices, the dangers surrounding and the precautions required to avoid potential injury when near electric/hybrid vehicles. While Levels 2 and 3 are aimed more towards experienced technicians actually working on the vehicles.

However, sometimes standard off-the-shelf courses may not meet your requirements. For instance, you may approach a training organisation requesting a specific outcome to your training needs but still wanting the prestigious IMI certification. Under such circumstances, it is important to discuss your requirements with your training provider to ensure that they understand what you are trying to achieve and ask them to design a course to meet your needs.  After all, not everyone needs to know everything about EV Technology but safe working practices and upskilling your workforce will help them to deliver their client’s requirements and ensure a better dialogue when discussing and understanding an overall appreciation of EV Powertrain system.

Eliot Smith went on to say,

"A one size fits all approach is unlikely to work with EV customers because there are so many different scenarios and situations to navigate through. Every customer is different. They have different questions and different challenges to contend with."

If you have a specific need or can’t find what you need for your EV technical Training needs, contact us using the link: https://www.pro-moto.co.uk/contact

Pro-Moto have also put together a unique course for the people that need to have a better understanding of the EV technology, terminology used, and the how it all works.

Want to know more or book on the course, clink the link: https://www.pro-moto.co.uk/tech-for-non-tech-hybrid/evs-explained